Ganga a national asset

Allahabad, Apr 26: Ganga Pradushan Mukti Abhiyan Samiti today demanded that the Ganga be declared as a national asset and national river.

Samiti national convenor Harichaitnya Brahmchari said here crores of Hindus regard the river as mother. ''The importance of Ganga is mentioned in our Vedas and Puranas and it the lifeline of the people of India.'' However, he lamented the river was highly polluted these days due to industrial and domestic wastes falling in it at various places without any check.

He suggested the polluted water falling in the river be treated and used for irrigation, while human waste be utilised as manure.

''Before the government prepares any scheme to rid Ganga of pollution, suggestions of saints must also be taken,'' he said.

The Brahmchari suggested strigent laws to check Ganga pollution.

He warned if Ganga was not freed from pollution, the seers would boycott the 'Ardh Kumbh' falling in January next year at Allahabad.

''Saints and people have launched a movement for the last two years against Ganga pollution. We have been urging union as well Uttar Pradesh and Uttaranchal governments to ameliorate the mess, but unfortunately these regimes are still silent.'' The activist observed it was not only an insult to the saints, but a crime against humanity.

''The government by constructing dams at Tehri and Narora has stopped the natural flow of Ganga and it has created problem for the river, which is worshipped in India,'' added.

The national consumer also claimed to have written letters to the President of India, Prime Minister and Chief Ministers of UP and Uttaranchal urging for taking immediate steps to free Ganga and other rivers from pollution.

''Our slogan is 'Ganga ke aviral dhara, nirmal dhara' and we are ready to make any sacrifice,'' he added.

UNI